Changes to some drone and model aircraft regulations came into effect on 1 January 2026. This page shows the rules that apply from 1 January 2026, click here to view the list.
The remote pilot qualification you need depends on whether you want to fly in the Open Category or Specific Category and the level of competency required.
Flying under a model aircraft club or association authorisation
The situation is different for remote pilots flying under an authorisation granted to a model aircraft club or association. They must meet the competency requirements set out in the club or association's authorisation. Ask your club or association for details.
Open Category qualifications
There are two qualifications available for the Open Category:
- the basic Flyer ID online theory test
- the A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC)
Flyer ID
Anyone wanting to fly a drone that weighs 100g or more must pass our official test to get a Flyer ID.
You must have a Flyer ID before you can get any other qualification.
A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC)
The A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC) enables you to fly in the Near People (A2) Category.
Find out more about the A2 CofC
Specific Category
When flying in the Specific Category, remote pilots must meet the applicable competency requirements set out in the Specific Category operational authorisation.
There are four qualifications for the Specific Category:
- General Visual Line of Sight Certificate (GVC)
- Level 1 Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC-L1)
- Part A – VLOS
- Part B – BVLOS with Visual Mitigations (VM)
- Level 2 Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC-L2)
- Level 3 Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC-L3)
Note: The GVC will stop being issued on 31 December 2027. After this date, only RPC-L1, RPC-L2, and RPC-L3 will be available.